Boost for shire events

Shire events will receive a significant boost in funds through the state government’s Open Streets program.

Successful recipients were announced late last week, with council to receive $86,017.50 for events to be held late this year.

The Narrabri Christmas Activation and Narrabri Chamber of Commerce Street Carnival, Wee Waa Chamber of Commerce’s Christmas Mardi Gras, Boggabri Business Chamber monthly market and Boggabri CBD Christmas Event will share in the funds.

Duty MLC for Barwon, and Labor Upper House member, Stephen Lawrence said eight grants had been awarded across the Barwon electorate.

“These events are all a tribute to the community spirit and ingenuity of our community volunteers and local councils who are at the core of these events,” Mr Lawrence said.

“I look forward to attending as many as I can myself and getting into the spirit of things.

“These events boost local economies, bolster community spirit and build connections.

“I am very proud to be a part of the Open Streets Program and want to congratulate all recipients.”

Open Streets is part of the state government’s Vibrant Streets Package, now a $19.7 million investment to inject vibrancy into local communities.

The other key program in the Vibrant Streets Package is the Permit/Plug/Play Pilot which gives local councils the tools to reduce the cost and red tape of closing streets for events on a more regular basis. The aim of this program is to encourage councils to use their main streets for more events more often.

This package is part of the NSW government’s vibrancy and visitor economy agenda, which recognises that local communities and businesses know what works best in their towns and suburbs.

Previous Christmas activation events have also been supported through state government programs.

The Christmas events are always significant for the shire, attracting large crowds.

Last year’s Narrabri Chamber of Commerce Christmas street carnival saw thousands turnout to soak up the festive atmosphere and attractions setup along Maitland Street.

Events in Wee Waa and Boggabri are also well patronised and promote the importance of shopping locally and supporting shire businesses.

The Boggabri Business Chamber monthly markets is a new event for the CBD precinct and encourages artisans to showcase products while encouraging people to explore Merton Street.

The markets will help home-based businesses and artisans to showcase and sell products and will provide opportunities for social connections, a reason to stay, play and participate.